Hi Folks,

I recently acquired a 145.022-69 with a beautiful brown dial. I'll post a pic later if need be, but one of the lug holes shows signs of having enlarged a bit over the years. It holds a springbar well from what I can tell so far, but I would like to wear and enjoy this watch with as little worry as possible.

So I'm curious what your thoughts are. I've heard of laser welding, but I'm not sure if it's applicable here. Is this something you'd call IWW or LAWW for? I'm also considering buying a NOS case. I know that would diminish the value (I would of course keep the original case), but again, I want to wear this watch without a nagging worry that it'll pop off my wrist.

If any of you have any thoughts on how best to handle this, I'd love hear them.

Thanks,
-GW

 

Quick fix: NATO (r) strap...

Everything else is costly and or tedious

 

I have had broken lug holes repaired by laser welding, with reasonable results. The repair is noticeable if you look for it, but the weld is strong and secure.

 

LAWW, new business before it broke off from ABC, does this procedure with laser welding.
I had it done to a watch one time...
You would be very pleased of the results. Drop them an email and pictures of your concern...

 

Thanks gang, I appreciate your input.
-GW

 

Thicker spring bars if it is not too bad. They come in several diameters.

 

+1 on Beau and Edvi

 

Lovely watch. Is that a 1175 bracelet?

 

Thank you.
I've used LAWW to refinish a watch in the past, and they did an immaculate job. I didn't know if this was something they'd take on, but I'll definitely get in touch with them.

Cheers.
-GW

 

Thank you.
Based on what I'm seeing on the forums, I believe it is an 1175, as it's marked with a "No. 12" and the endlinks are stamped "47". Very comfortable too, by the way.

Cheers,
-GW

 

Is that an Alden shell cordovan loafer as your avatar?

 

Yes, it is.
Just like a great watch... they look good new or beat up, and they go with just about anything.

Cheers,
-GW

 

I see your reasoning, but still, an unusual avatar for a watch forum. I guess we should consider ourselves lucky you don't find your underwear more versatile than your shoes...

 

Just back from LAWW.
This is the 2nd time I've used them, and I'm extremely impressed with the quality of their work.

Cheers,
-GW

Before:


After:


Now:

 

Looks great! [emoji1360]

 

I've been dealing with high energy system welding (petro-chem and steam systems, etc.) for 20 years. That is impressive.

 

Looks great!

 

Is ABC still active? Or have they shuttered? They had one of the best colour matching for hands in the business.





♚ @TheSingaporeanWatchBaron ♚ (Instagram)

 

ABC split, Beau and Edvi started LA Watch Werks.

Both do great work.

 

Very nice work! How much did they charged you? You rectified all 4 lug holes?